Risk factors for mortality in children with pertussis and hyperleukocytosis undergoing exchange transfusion: a single-center retrospective cohort study

Younger age at onset, marked leukocytosis, and pre-ET cardiovascular failure were associated with increased mortality in children with pertussis complicated by hyperleukocytosis. These factors may help identify patients at higher risk and highlight the importance of early recognition, close monitoring, and timely supportive management. Further prospective studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to validate these findings and to inform optimized management strategies in this vulnerable population.